Jervis Bay Bunting

By Bobbi-Jean MacKinnon Times Globe staff writer
As Reported in the "Evening Times-Globe", Wed. Nov.5, 1997

While HMS Jervis Bay
underwent refit in Saint John during the summer of 1940, many of the crew
struck up friendships with the dockyard workers and were entertained in their
homes. Such was the case of the Boswain's Mate who became friends with Thomas
Hooley and visited his home many times.

Refit completed, the Jervis Bay was recommissioned with due ceremony and in the
Royal Navy tradition was issued with "new bunting". The following day
she sailed into history.

The Boswain spent his last night ashore with his friend Tom and after dinner
presented the Jervis Bay's "old bunting" (the White Ensign and Union
Flag) to Tom in appreciation of his hospitality.

In 1961 when Tom was packing for a move, he wished to place the bunting in the
care of someone who would appreciate them. Having read in the paper that Alex P
Gregory had been appointed the National President of the Naval Officers
Association of Canada, he offered them to Mr. Gregory. Needless to say, they
were received with due delight.

In the ensuing years the White Ensign has been loaned for display in several
Jervis Bay Memorials and also used to cover the caskets of former shipmates.
Mr. Gregory states it will be used to cover his before finding a final home
with RCL Branch #53.

On November 5, 1997,
Mr. Gregory (right) presented the Union Flag that the Jervis Bay flew while in
drydock to RCL Branch #53. Accepting on behalf of the Legion was Mr. Robert
Squires (seated) who served under it, and Mr. W.R. Joyce (left), President RCL
Branch #53.